Rolla Gun Store Bandit Pleads Guilty to Carjacking, Gun Store Heist

A 19-year-old man from Phelps County, Missouri, has admitted to a brazen carjacking and gun store burglary in the small town of Rolla. Martavious Jones, 19, pleaded guilty to one count of carjacking and stealing a firearm from a federally licensed dealer.

According to court documents, on September 11, 2022, Jones and an accomplice broke a window at a Rolla gun store to gain entry. Inside, they stole four handguns, including an AR-style pistol, along with a large quantity of ammunition and firearm accessories. Two of the stolen guns were later found in a bag near Jones’ home.

The carjacking incident occurred on March 1, 2023, in Rolla. Jones approached a man in his 2013 Nissan Altima and asked for a ride. Once they were moving, Jones pulled out a large knife and held it to the driver’s throat. He demanded the victim’s keys and cell phone, which he then dropped out of the window before fleeing in the stolen vehicle. Jones was eventually spotted by police and fled on foot, leaving behind his wallet and the knife.

The Rolla Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Szczucinski is prosecuting the case.

Jones is scheduled to be sentenced on August 21. The carjacking charge carries a penalty of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. The stealing charge carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.

The guilty plea marks the latest in a string of high-profile crimes in Phelps County. Residents are breathing a sigh of relief as justice is finally served. The Grimy Times will continue to monitor the case and provide updates as more information becomes available.